1971-1976 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible

The 1971-1976 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible was once judged "a dubious collectible at best." But it looks better now that opinions have settled with the dimming memories of 1976's "last convertible" farce.

1975 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado convertible. See more pictures of Cadillac cars.

The 1971-1976 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible is big and impressive, but Cadillac's second series of personal-luxury front drivers suffers against its 1967-70 forebearer for hulkier styling and no-progress mechanicals. Still, not appreciably heavier despite appearances, this series always outsold the first generation.

The convertible, the first open-air Eldo since '66, boasted an easy-as-pie power top that stowed beneath the traditional rigid cover. With the possible exception of the genuine, all-white "last-convertibles" (only 199 built, plus one that Cadillac kept) -- the ones bid to absurd levels when new -- a '76 has no real edge over a 1971-75 either in monetary or interest value.

Indeed, the '71 may ultimately be the most desired of these cars as first of the line and fewest in number. Collectors won't likely take any of these cars very seriously for some years yet, but interest is growing.

Pluses of the 1971-1976 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible:

• Minor historical interest
• As big and luxurious as they come
• In reasonable supply yet
  

Minuses of the 1971-1976 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible:

• Very high running costs
• Hardly a great Cadillac
  

Production of the 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible:
6,800

Production of the 1972 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible:
7,975

Production of the 1973 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible:
9,315

Production of the 1974 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible:
7,600

Production of the 1975 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible:
8,950

Production of the 1976 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible:
14,000

Specifications of the 1971-1976 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible:
Length, inches: 220.0-224.1
Wheelbase, inches: 126.3
Weight, pounds: 4,730-5,167
Price, new: $7,751-$14,000 (U.S.)

Engines for the 1971-1976 Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado Convertible:

Type	Size	Horsepower	Years
ohv V-8	500 cid	190-235	1971-1976

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• Classic Cars
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• Consumer Guide Auto
• Consumer Guide Auto Used Car Search

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